Long Reach Ethernet

Long Reach Ethernet (LRE) is a technology developed to extend the reach of traditional Ethernet networks over longer distances using existing copper telephone lines. It is particularly useful in environments where installing new fiber optic cables is impractical or cost-prohibitive. LRE can deliver Ethernet services over distances up to 5,000 feet (approximately 1,524 meters), significantly longer than the standard Ethernet limit of 100 meters.

Overview

LRE operates by utilizing DSL technology, specifically a variant known as Very-high-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL). This allows it to transmit data at high speeds over existing copper infrastructure. LRE is capable of supporting data rates up to 15 Mbps, which is sufficient for many business applications, including Voice over IP (VoIP), video conferencing, and high-speed internet access.

Applications

LRE is commonly used in environments such as:

• Hotels and hospitality settings, where it can provide high-speed internet access to guests without the need for extensive rewiring.
• Educational institutions, where it can extend network connectivity to remote buildings or temporary classrooms.
• Healthcare facilities, where it can support the networking needs of various departments spread across a large campus.
• Corporate campuses, where it can connect different buildings without the need for new cabling.

Advantages

Some of the key advantages of LRE include:

• Cost-effectiveness: Utilizes existing copper infrastructure, reducing the need for expensive new cabling.
• Extended reach: Can transmit data over distances up to 5,000 feet, far exceeding the standard Ethernet limit.
• High-speed connectivity: Supports data rates up to 15 Mbps, suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Ease of deployment: Can be quickly and easily deployed in environments with existing telephone lines.

Limitations

Despite its advantages, LRE also has some limitations:

• Speed limitations: While 15 Mbps is sufficient for many applications, it may not meet the needs of bandwidth-intensive applications.
• Interference: LRE can be susceptible to interference from other electrical devices and environmental factors.
• Distance limitations: Although it extends the reach of Ethernet, it still has a maximum distance limit of 5,000 feet.

Related Technologies

• Ethernet
• DSL
• VDSL
• VoIP
• Fiber optic communication

See Also

• Ethernet
• Digital Subscriber Line
• Very-high-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line
• Voice over IP
• Fiber optic communication